First-Time Campers

As a first time camper at Island Lake, you will receive a lot of help in adjusting to camp life and choosing your activities. We have an Open House at camp about two weeks before camp starts for all of our new campers and their families. We start with a tour of camp and an explanation of how things work. After the tour, you will have lunch with your family and our Island Lake staff will be spread out throughout the dining room for any additional questions you may have. Once lunch is finished, you and your siblings will go to either the gym or circus building to enjoy some activities while your parents will have a question and answer session with one of our directors.

When you arrive at camp for your stay you will be greeted by your counselors and any bunk mates that have arrived before you. Once everyone has arrived your bunk will play some games to get everyone comfortable with each other and to help everyone get to know one another.

You will also have help from your counselors and group leader in choosing your activities. You will sit down with your group leader one on one to choose your majors and your counselors will help you with your minors each day.

Many first time campers are concerned about being "homesick". Every child is different; therefore we handle each case of homesickness in a different manner. What works for some campers may not work for others. We tailor our approach to your specific needs and what we feel will work best for you. We are confident that with the assistance of our staff, and on occasion the assistance of your parents, we can help you overcome homesickness so you can enjoy your experience at Island Lake.